1. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs were everywhere in 2016, and the trend is still going strong as we head into the new year, according to our experts.
"Bangs are not going away next year. They are longer and heavier, producing a very dramatic look which draws you into the eyes." --Chadwick Pendley, Ouidad Master Artistic Educator
"I personally love this trend because it allows me to create new and modern shapes that frame the face and enhance volume through the top of the haircut for a balanced updated look." --Lauren Moser, Hair Lab Detroit; Ouidad Curl Advisory Board
2. Soft Texture
Crunchy curls are a thing of the past-now it's all about softer, less defined texture for a beautiful, natural look.
"The hot look for curls is 'lived in': soft and diffused. It's modern and it's sexy!" --Chadwick Pendley
"This season, try products with a softer hold, like Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner. Apply, then air dry or lightly diffuse." --Jessica O'Brien, Ouidad Flagship Stylist / Ouidad Curl Advisory Board"Product is necessary for enhancement, volume and hold... but products that make all of that look 'natural' will take center stage." --Ashlee Levitch, President, Bangstyle / Ouidad Curl Advisory Board
3. Reinvented Shapes
This season, reshape your curls with a fresh cut-there's an on-trend look to flatter every curl.
"This season, shapes are bold and powerful. For example, I'm taking round 'Afro'-inspired shapes and cutting their lower bottom half into a more angled shape. In longer lengths, I'm creating movement and lift throughout the interior, which produces a very modern, soft shag-inspired look." --Chadwick Pendley
"Curly haired women across the globe are living for the oval haircut shape. Women want to feel and look feminine no matter what their hair length is, the correct oval haircut will do just that." --Vincenzo, Stylist & Social Media Influencer
4. Mega Volume
For 2017, our experts agree that bigger is better when it comes to curls.
"Volume and natural texture will be embraced in ways we haven't seen in the last couple decades. This is an exciting time to be a curly girl!" --Lauren Moser
"[I'm seeing] less focus on perfection and more focus on volume. It's all about volume! Definition is great, but volume is pronounced, it's fierce and it's bold." --Monica Stevens, Mo Knows Hair
"From highly textured to light waves, volume is in." --Ashlee Levitch
5. Healthy Moisture
No matter what the trend, healthy, hydrated curls are the most essential foundation.
"The secret to styles that last, hair that breaks less and doesn't excessively shed, and curls that pop is moisture. Use a hydrating shampoo, and try steaming your deep conditioning mask. Ouidad's Curl Recovery Melt-Down Extreme Repair Mask is one my favorite deep conditioners." - Monica Stevens
"I'm seeing curly haired women understand and take care of their hair more. I believe that has to do with the great support from natural hair bloggers on YouTube, along with stylists that strictly cater to the natural community." - Vincenzo
"In 2017, everyone needs to experience Ouidad Mongongo Oil. This product is amazing on all curl types and can replace lost moisture during the dry, cold, and harsh winter months as well as protecting locks from sun and environmental damage in the summer months." - Lauren Moser